Chapter 46
Evelyn’s POV
That evening, we enjoyed an extravagant dinner at Julian’s home. The private chef had outdone himself with local specialties—fresh lobster in garlic butter, grilled sea bass with Mediterranean herbs, and an array of perfectly prepared seafood dishes that showcased Duskwatch Bay’s finest catches.
“Please stay a few more days with the children,” Irina suggested warmly. “Nathan so rarely gets to play with other children his age, and the little ones seem to be getting along wonderfully p>
“Of course,” I smiled. “The children are having such a good time p>
I glanced at the kids chatting happily while eating at their own table. Rowan was gently wiping sauce off Alex’s messy face.
As we savored the delicious meal, our conversation naturally drifted to business. Julian, I knew, was one of the Eros Pack’s most successful exporters, with shipping connections throughout the world.
“Actually,” I said, seeing an opportunity, “I’ve been trying to source a particular medicinal herb—Moon Shadow Root. It’s quite rare in Veridia,but essential for a treatment I’m developing p>
Julian’s eyes lit up with interest. “Moon Shadow Root? Interesting choice. It’s difficult to cultivate,requires specific soil conditions and abundant moonlight exposure for optimal potency p>
“Exactly,” I nodded. “It’s a rare commodity in the market. That’s why I’m searching for the right land to begin local large-scale farming p>
Julian swirled his wine thoughtfully.”I might be able to help. The Eros Pack has trading partners in several countries where Moon Shadow Root grows naturally. I can’t promise large quantities immediately, but I could arrange a shipment to tide you over until your cultivation project begins p>
“That would be incredible,” I said, genuinely grateful.
“Consider it done,” he replied with a warm smile. “It’s the least I can do after what you’ve done for my family p>
The days in Duskwatch Bay passed quickly.We visited the bustling marketplace where traders from across the world sold exotic goods, and I even took them to my favorite cafe that still served the same rich hot chocolate I’d survived on during finals week.
I showed my children the university campus where I’d studied, took them sailing in the harbor, and even reconnected with a few old professors who were astonished to learn of my success with Evelink Biosciences.
Alexis particularly loved the beach, collecting shells with Nathan while my twins built elaborate sand fortresses. Seeing them so carefree, their recent illness seemingly forgotten, filled me with profound relief.
But all too soon, it was time to return to reality.
On our final morning, Julian presented me with a small wooden box. “A token of our gratitude,” he said as I opened it to find several carefully preserved moonshade root specimens. ” It’s not much, but perhaps enough for your initial research p>
“I’ve contacted merchants from the Northern Territories to secure a shipment of Moonshade Root for you. It will be delivered to your research facility soon p>
I was genuinely touched by his thoughtfulness. “Thank you, Julian. This means more than you know p>
We said our goodbyes at the private airfield, with promises to visit again soon. As our jet took off, I watched Duskwatch Bay shrink beneath us, its shimmering waters and elegant towers catching the morning light.
When we landed in Ravenshade, I wasn’t surprised to see Calvin and Zeon waiting at the airport. I’d informed him of our arrival time, knowing he would want to see the boys immediately.
The twins, spotting their father, ran to him with excited shouts.
“Dad! We missed you!” they called in near-perfect unison.
I watched as Calvin carefully examined them, noting their improved color and energy. Relief visibly washed over his face, softening his usually stern features. For a moment, his eyes even appeared slightly red-rimmed.
“I missed you too,” he said, gathering them into his arms.
I approached slowly, Alexis’s hand firmly in mine. My daughter pressed closer to my side, her little fingers tightening around mine as we neared Calvin.
Our eyes met over the boys’ heads. The tension between us was palpable, but I kept my expression cool.
“They’ve fully recovered,” I said crisply. “No lasting effects from the poison p>
Calvin nodded, his eyes never leaving mine. “Thank you for bringing them back safely p>
I kept my distance, my demeanor cooler than before our trip. I couldn’t bring myself to meet his eyes with any warmth. I had sent him all the evidence of Clara’s actions, but still hadn’t received any word from Jackson about his handling of the Calypso Pack.
Calvin seemed to understand the source of my coldness. I could see him wanting to explain, to defend himself perhaps, but I gave him no opportunity.
“We should go,” I said, turning slightly toward the exit where Eryx waited with our own vehicle. “It’s been a long flight, and Alexis needs to rest p>
Calvin looked like he wanted to say more, his mouth opening slightly before he changed his mind. Instead, he simply nodded.
“I’ll bring the boys home tomorrow evening,” he said. “If that works for you p>
“That’s fine,” I replied. “Text me the time p>
The journey home was quiet, with Alexis falling asleep. Once home, I carried her inside and gently changed her into pajamas before tucking her into bed.
I finally check the messages Jackson had been sending throughout the day.
Clara had attempted suicide in front of Calvin by 拿一把银制小刀捅向胸口自杀, though she hadn’t succeeded. She was currently recovering in a private room at Wolfe Haven’s exclusive medical facility.
I wasn’t surprised. It was exactly the kind of dramatic gesture I would have expected from her.
I smiled with contempt. So this was why Calvin hadn’t punished Clara in the week I’d been gone? She truly was a ruthless woman, daring to gamble with her own life by using silver – the one thing all wolves feared most.
If Calvin was too afraid to deal with her, I certainly wasn’t.
I instructed Jackson to continue monitoring the Calypso Pack closely.
“There must be more we haven’t uncovered yet,” I told him. “Keep digging p>
After hanging up, I sent a message to Gary, “I’m taking on that patient case from last week p>